After one failed attempt at securing an East Cost Hockey League franchise for the city of Atlantic City, it became obvious that the gloves had to come off.

With an ominous deadline lurking in the weeds and a mandate to secure a viable tenant for the refurbished historic Boardwalk Hall all too real, it was time to get down to business.

Thanks to a past personal history for visiting Atlantic City and an attractive state-guaranteed, season-ticket sales package, co-owner of the NBA's Charlotte Hornets George Shinn agreed to purchase the Birmingham Bulls and relocate the 11-year-old franchise to Atlantic City. The public announcement was made at a press conference held at the Boardwalk Hall on Monday, May 14.

The "Boardwalk Bullies" will begin a 36-game home schedule (72 overall) on October 12, at home against the Wheeling Nailers. A "name-the-team" contest was held over the summer as residents cast their vote or their favorite moniker. The team's name, logo and colors were unveiled at a press conference on Thursday, August 2, inside the Boardwalk Hall (Right). Shinn's three-year deal with the state guarantees him yearly sales revenue from 2,000 season tickets, even if figures drop below the mark.